Category Archives: Reality TV

One July 20, 2016, TV One announced the third season renewal of the heartwarming comedic docu-series Rickey Smiley For Real. The third season will return with even stronger bonds and bigger laughs, as comic and radio personality Rickey Smiley continues to strive to achieve his quest for domination of the entertainment industry. In the second season, which debuted in May, viewers have watched Smiley journey through a wild ride, ranging from his parental style being put to the test to fun family vacations to an epic DJ battle with a friendly rival morning radio show. Rickey Smiley For Real continues to post double digit gains, and is currently outperforming its first season across all total and key Black demos.

“The consistent growth of Rickey Smiley For Real demonstrates the strong connection our viewers have with Rickey’s lovable family and laughable team,” said D’Angela Proctor, Head of Original Programming and Production for TV One. “Over two seasons, new and devoted fans have watched as the cast takes great strides in their personal lives and we look forward to watching as the cast exhibits their commitment to the community as well.“

“Although I am happy about the renewal for Season 3 of my show; it’s very difficult for me to celebrate as I sit here and watch the funerals of Philander Castile and Alton Sterling,” remarked Smiley. “I yearn for our country to be solid and to embrace our differences and to understand our differing communities and history. We have too many others in the world trying to destroy what our nation, on the pain and suffering of our own people, has built. I assure you that police violence will be a topic addressed in Season 3 as I feel compelled to use my platform to make change in this country for the good of all our citizens. I’m thankful my show is doing well, but our nation, especially black America, is grieving at this time.“

Infusing his brand of comedy into every situation, Rickey Smiley For Real, also introduces viewers to his four children – sons Brandon and Malik and daughters D’Essence and Aaryn – as well as his extended family of co-workers, colleagues and friends – his nephew Craig, live-in assistant Miss Pat, personal assistant Angie, business consultant Bruce Demps, childhood friend and family lawyer Nakita Blocton, radio co-hosts Da Brat, Gary With Da Tea, Headkrack, Rock T and Juicy, and radio show producers Beyonce and Hollywood.

As a much-loved comedian, television host of Dish Nation, and top-rated nationally syndicated radio personality of The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, Smiley rose to superstardom after igniting his 25-year career serving as opening act for industry titans such as Steve Harvey, George Wallace and Carl Strong. Throughout his career trajectory, Smiley has been one of the industry’s most towering forces in building an impressive empire that has landed him preeminent roles on radio, television, film and on-stage performances. For more information on Smiley’s personal and professional background, please visit: http://therealrickeysmiley.com/.

Rickey Smiley For Real is produced by Bobbcat Films for TV One with Rickey Smiley and Roger M. Bobb as executive producers and Angi Bones as co-executive producer. For TV One, Lamar Chase is executive-in-charge of production, Robyn Greene Arrington is vice president of original programming and production, and D’Angela Proctor is head of original programming and production.

Media and business moguls seem to have a wide range of experiences to get to the place where they finally reach their goals. Some start as assistants to high profile executives, while some others work for a friend or family member. Then there are some who just seemed to be born with the attitude and work ethic to do what is needed to be done to become that leader they always wanted to be.

The new hit Oxygen show, “Like A Boss” gives the audience access to the lives of bosses in the making. The show introduces Amber Grimes, Rian Parish, and Drekia Glenn. While these might not be household names as of yet, just keep watching because these three ladies have had experience assisting high profile executives and talent.

Recently, Amber Grimes, Rian Parish, and Drekia Glenn discussed their goals and reason for being a part of this popular show. Here is a little about the 3 media moguls in the making: Amber Grimes, is currently assistant to media mogul Nick Cannon. Rian Parish is the assistant to popular radio personality Big Tigger and Drekia Glenn is assistant to music executive Abou “Bu” Thiam. Within the show, these protégés are out to prove they have the drive, focus and ambition to be a future CEO.

Amber Grimes is an ambitious Atlanta native with an independent grind to make it in the entertainment world. She recently joined Nick Cannon’s team as his assistant to help him launch NCredible in Atlanta. Her career kicked off early by becoming one of the top college party promoters in the city. After making a big name for herself on the party scene, she furthered her interest in entertainment by promoting and managing several artists. Her hard work quickly led to her first executive assistant position at Def Jam Records for the Former Vice President, Abou “Bu” Thiam, as well as a brand ambassador position with Reebok. It was always this assistant’s goal to become a trailblazer in the male dominated entertainment industry, and Amber has done that by taking her experience with high level executives, major artists, and event planning, to start her own full service marketing company, The Cardi Brand Agency. Amber also uses her athletic background, passion for fitness, and major brand connections to host an all female health initiative, #PowerWomenSweat, that promotes healthy living and offers women of all ages free fitness classes and networking opportunities. Amber has big goals to make it as a powerful female in show business and to inspire other young women to always follow their dreams.

On the rise from none other than the wonderful “Peach State of Georgia”, a shining star was born, Miss Rian Parish. Talented actress, graceful dancer, and one who has been known to “rock” the mic, she is blazing the road to stardom. She has made her contacts in the entertainment game by becoming the right hand to some of Hollywood’s hottest stars and now she is making her mark as she breaks out from behind the scenes to steal the spotlight. Her bubbly personality, charisma, and quick wit make her the go to girl for hosting, emceeing, and interviewing. Rian has honed skills in every facet of the industry from behind the camera as a hairstylist and makeup artist, to owning scenes in television, film, and music video productions. Rian is fully aware that nothing comes easy or fast, and when she is not on set, she is learning the entertainment business inside and out. Currently, Rian is trying to perfect the balancing act between being an assistant to radio DJ and TV personality Big Tigger and being a mom to three kids. If being a mom and an assistant wasn’t enough, Rian is an entrepreneur having started a budding tax preparation and staffing business, in addition to hustling to jump start an entertainment career as an on camera host. Finding the time to do it all is tough, but if working for Big Tigger can give Rian one thing, it’s a chance to learn how to be an on air personality from one of the best.

After reaching out to music executive Bu Thiam, Drekia Glenn finally has her shot at the big-time and will learn the ropes as Bu’s second assistant. Dedication to her job won’t be an issue for Drekia as she has always been a hard worker. Her career goal is to run an entertainment concierge firm, serving the needs of all facets of show business from athletes to models to music artists and more. She is real and no nonsense and someone you will definitely remember after seeing her on the screen just once.

Although, these 3 ladies are very different, they have similar goals and that is to succeed and be role models in empowering other young women. They are each on their way and definitely expect to hear so much more from them in the coming years.

Reality shows are sometimes full of quite a bit of drama, but there are a few that are programmed for fun and even education. Now, while there are shows about ghost hunting, there is one about the hit television screens that is like no other. It is called Ghost Brothers and it has a very interesting and unique take on ghost hunting and the paranormal.

On April 13, 2016, in New York, Destination America hosted an exclusive press screening at the historic Algonquian Hotel for their latest show “Ghost Brothers,” a six-part docu-series featuring TV’s first African-American paranormal investigation team. The cast members Juwan Mass, Dalen Spratt and Marcus Harvey were on hand for a brief Q&A, which was moderated by marketing maven Shante Bacon. Following the Q&A, the cast conducted one-on-one interviews with attending press.

The story of “Ghost Brothers” follows three best friends– all raised in religious households – who take their healthy curiosity and passion for the paranormal to the next level. During the series, the trio tour a series of haunted houses throughout the U.S. to uncover the history and the truth behind the local tales. The series mixes in a blend of history, education with a little humor as the three men go about their quest to discover more about life after death and the supernatural and their specific take on this subject is like no other.

The first episode is set to air on Friday, April 15, 2016 at 10pm EST on Destination America. For more information on the show and the cast, visit the Destination America website. Also, there will ve updates and photos on Facebook and Twitter. The Ghost Brothers truly gives audience a new look on the ghost hunting.

Just when you thought there could be no new women centered reality shows around, here is another one to join the ranks. This time the story follows the lives of six intelligent female attorneys.

The show is set in Houston,Texas and the “Sisters In Law” series follows a close-knit group of elite high-powered black female lawyers as they juggle their families, busy careers, and even more demanding social calendars. The ladies may differ in their fundamental beliefs when it comes to right and wrong, but what they have in common is their passion for trying cases in a traditionally white, male-dominated profession. “Sisters In Law” documents their fascinating legal lives as well as their intricately woven personal lives. From trial prep and courtroom cross-examinations, to opposing council and opposing each other, watch as these powerful women struggle to remain civil under fierce competition and pressure.

WE tv and the Association of Black Women Attorneys (ABWA) hosted an exclusive screening of the docu-series “Sisters In Law, in New York City on March 23, 2016. The event began with a red carpet photo opps, a cocktail reception, a screening and ended with a Q&A with the cast moderated by TV/Radio personality Jacque Reid. Each of the cast member answered questions and shared some of their experiences as legal professionals. The show offers an honest look inside the lives of the very busy and successful women.

The first episode of the show is set to premiere on WE TV on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at 10/9c. For more information visit, the website.

Even though the title of the show is “The Real Housewives of the Potomac“, these particular ladies are so much more.They are mothers, sisters,daughters, wives and businesswomen who are hoping to empower their own children and others with this show.

As many viewers know by now, “The Real Housewives of the Potomac” premiered on on the Bravo Channel on January 17, 2016. Potomac, Maryland is located just outside of the nation’s capital, Washington, DC. The community is known for its rolling hills, gated mansions, sophisticated prep schools, and exclusive country clubs all serve to keep the area invitation-only. Sprinkled throughout this community are a handful of old-line, wealthy African-American families who have historically broken racial barriers to provide the best life possible for their children.

“The Real Housewives of Potomac” follows the upscale lives of six intriguing, well-to-do women:Gizelle Bryant, Katie Rost, Karen Huger, Charrisse Jackson-Jordan, Robyn Dixon, and Ashley Darby, all of whom have fought for their places in this society by way of legacy or marriage. They live in a town where entry is granted only through class, pedigree, and lineage.

I recently had the opportunity to chat with three of the ladies and they each provided such intriguing information and tips on what they wanted their audience to take away from watching them each week. The chat was with: Gizelle Bryant, Karen Huger and Robyn Dixon. Each of the ladies were intelligent, poised and quite certain of their goals and how they each planned to use this platform to empower others. From their appearances, one would think that they are just pretty faces, but this is so far from the truth. While it is evident that they are all beautiful women, there is a vast degree of major substance that goes along with each of them.

What audiences will learn over the course of the show is how deep the friendship of these ladies go. Many of them have know one another through their philanthropic efforts over the years. One of Karen’s first endeavors is to focus on the importance of Alzheimer’s Disease awareness and the effects of the caretaker as well. As a result of their friendship, Robyn and Gizelle are own board to support her. This is much of the theme with the ladies and what does set them apart.

Whether it through philanthropy, etiquette or education, the goal of “The Real Housewives of Potomac”is to allow others to see their world and how they can benefit from it. And while there will be disagreements that happen among friends, because let’s face it, that is life, this group of women wants to show the world their process for handling a disagreement in a positive and healthy way.

Looks like there is another city with interesting and intriguing housewives coming to you television screen. This time the ladies are located just outside of the nation’s capital. From Maryland‘s fabulous best-kept secret to the truly over-the-top Lone Star State, Bravo Media expands “The Real Housewives” franchise with two new lavish and picturesque locales. Revealing one of the most affluent towns in America, “The Real Housewives of Potomac“premiered on Sunday, January 17, 2016.

“‘The Real Housewives’ has become a global phenomenon that drives cultural conversation while consistently breaking ratings records,” said Shari Levine, Executive Vice President, Current Production, Bravo Media. “We’re happy to extend the franchise with Potomac and Dallas giving Bravo fans more of what they desire: stories of dynamic women who make us laugh, cry, cheer and experience unforgettable moments we can’t stop talking about.”

According to Executive Producer, Andy Cohen who is responsible for “The Real Housewives” franchise, recently stated that “‘The Real Housewives of Potomac’ is the show you never saw coming, and it’s going to take everyone by surprise! From the recent premiere, it looks like there is bound to be another hit for Bravo.

Potomac, Maryland is located just outside of Washington, DC. Its rolling hills, gated mansions, sophisticated prep schools, and exclusive country clubs all serve to keep the area invitation-only. Sprinkled throughout this community are a handful of old-line, wealthy African-American families who have historically broken racial barriers to provide the best life possible for their children.

“The Real Housewives of Potomac” follows the upscale lives of six intriguing, well-to-do women:Gizelle Bryant, Katie Rost, Karen Huger, Charrisse Jackson-Jordan, Robyn Dixon, and Ashley Darby, all of whom have fought for their places in this society by way of legacy or marriage. In a town where entry is granted only through class, pedigree, and lineage, how far will these ladies go to secure their spot at the top of this prestigious circle?

For a sneak peek, visit: Bravo TV: Real Housewives of Potomac. With this franchise still going strong, it looks like there might be another city showcasing attractive women will continue to work.

Great news for Holly Robinson and Rodney Peete fans, get ready to meet the entire family. OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network recently announced the airing of a a comedic, dramatic and highly intimate docu-series, “For Peete’s Sake” (working title), following the lives of husband and wife duo Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete as they juggle complicated career choices with their bustling family life.

“As longtime members of ‘The Oprah Show’ family, we’ve watched Holly and Rodney navigate successful careers in show business, a devoted marriage and a growing, love-filled family,” said Sheri Salata, president, OWN. “This new series gives an entertaining and honest look at a modern family that just happens to live in the celebrity spotlight.”

Millions of fans know Holly Robinson Peete as the actress who launched her long-running career starring on the groundbreaking TV series “21 Jump Street,” and Rodney Peete as the popular NFL quarterback and former co-host of Fox Sports’ “The Best Damn Sports Show Period.” But their very public careers reveal just a glimpse of what life is like today for this Hollywood power couple, whose family includes four kids and Holly’s wild-and-crazy mom, Dolores, who at 79 years young is anything but a typical grandma. In a household where constant activity and change are the norm, the series celebrates the chaotic, yet loving dynamic of life in this magnetic American family.

“Rodney and I couldn’t be more thrilled to call OWN our new TV home. We are excited to share our family’s chaotic bliss and zany journeys with OWN’s loyal and authentic audience,” said Holly Robinson Peete.

The Peete’s new series joins OWN’s popular Saturday night lineup. OWN is Saturday night’s #2 network on all of television for African-American women and year-to-date features the top three original series on television for African-American women (“Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s,” “Raising Whitley” and “2 Fat 2 Fly”). In 2014, OWN had the top five original series on ad-supported cable for African-American women (“Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s,” “Iyanla: Fix My Life,” “Deion’s Family Playbook,” “Six Little McGhees” and “Raising Whitley”).

Holly Robinson Peete made her TV debut at the age of four on “Sesame Street” alongside her father, Matt Robinson, who played the original Gordon on the show. After graduating from Sarah Lawrence College, she landed the part that made her recognizable to viewers throughout the world on the groundbreaking series “21 Jump Street,” and went on to star in “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” “For Your Love” and “Mike and Molly.” In 2010, she successfully launched “The Talk” as one of the original co-hosts. In 1995, she and Rodney Peete were married. A star athlete at USC, Peete was drafted three times by the MLB while there, but instead pursued a successful career in the NFL, which spanned 16 years and six teams. Following retirement, Peete joined Fox Sports “The Best Damn Sports Show Period,” serving as the show’s NFL expert for four seasons. The couple is also known for their highly respected philanthropic work and in 1997 founded the HollyRod foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing compassionate care to those living with autism and Parkinson’s disease.

The Peete family includes Holly’s widowed mom, Dolores, as well as the couple’s four children: twins RJ and Ryan Elizabeth (17), middle son Robinson (13), and the youngest, Roman (10).
Holly Robinson Peete And Rodney Peete To Star In New Docu-Series “For Peete’s Sake” For Own: Oprah Winfrey Network

“For Peete’s Sake” (working title) is produced for OWN by Tremendous! Entertainment. Executive producers are Colleen Needles Steward, Shannon Keenan Demers and Andy Meyer from Tremendous! Entertainment as well as John Ferriter, Kyell Thomas, Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete. Keep up to date on the show schedule on OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network.

With the premiere of their new reality show, it may be safe to say that superstar R &B Group SWV is back. SWV which stands for Sisters With Voices burst onto the music scene in the 90’s and blew their fans away with hit after hit.

In New York City on Wednesday January 15, 2014. The WE TV channel hosted a screeningparty at The Jazz Room at The General for the group’s new show called SWV Reunited. The room was filled with press, fans executives etc. to get a first look at the show.

As fans already know, the ladies of SWV include Cheryl “Coko” Clemons, Leanne “Lelee” Lyons and Tamara “Taj” George. They are the original members of the group and in the 1990’s they were on top of the music world. During their early career. they had a string of top ten R&B hits including “I’m So Into You,” “Right Here,” “Downtown,” “Weak,” and “You’re Always On My Mind.” They had over 15 million albums sold, a Grammy® nomination, an American Music Award nomination and 11 Billboard Music Awards nominations. To all watching, it appeared that SWV was unstoppable.

But while they seemed to have it all, the drama behind the scenes tore the group apart. It didn’t just end, it ended badly; and in 1998 the members of SWV went their separate ways. Now years later a fter marriage, kids and other separate endeavors, the trio came together and decided it was time to reunite for a chance to recapture their fame.

1n 2012, their sultry sound was introduced to a whole new generation of fans with new album I Miss Us, which earned a Grammy® nod in 2013 for “Best Traditional R&B Performance.”

The reality show SWV Reunited follows these three strong and talented women as they figure out how to trust each other again as well as perform well together. The premiere episode follows SWV on the first stop of the comeback tour at Wembley Stadium in London, but new secrets about Coko’s health threaten the rehabilitated bond of the group.

Fans will be in for a treat as throughout the season, they will get to see the ladies in action during high-stakes performances in Atlanta, D.C., L.A., and New York. Coko, Lelee and Taj not only address old wounds like trust, jealousy, egos and selfishness, but face new challenges including health scares, family issues and management drama.

And although they share plenty of tears, the ladies share lots of laughter. These ladies prove they can truly be real and laugh at themselves—whether it’s poking fun at Lelee’s butt lift, Coko’s tummy tuck or sharing hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from their early years. Now the question is, can the ladies of SWV finally come to terms with the issues that ended their friendship and career once before? Will they be able to put their differences aside to recapture fame? Fans will just have to watch and see.

Reality TV is definitely hot and continues to be on the move. Having a peek inside of someone’s life seems to be something many appreciate doing. Fans love the RealHousewives no matter what the city. Whether they are in Los Angeles, Atlanta, New Jersey, or New York, these ladies have audiences mesmerized with their lives and even some of their drama.

Celebrity Publicists’ The Von Boozier Twins presented Inspired In New York’s July Honoree – TV personality, spokesperson, and philanthropist Sonja Morgan from the The Real Housewives of New York. She was honored on July 11, 2013, at the Opulent West Village Hot Spot The Griffin, located at 50 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10011.

At the eight o’clock hour the invite-only event rolled out the red carpet to welcome the who’s who the entertainment and media industry to support the honoree for her accomplishments.

Sonja, to fans may be known more as one of their favorite housewives, but to the community, she has used her celebrity status and love of philanthropy to help others.

During the evening, the Honorable Assemblyman Keith Wright presented Sonja Morgan with a Citation from the state of New York for her contributions as an innovator and trendsetter in the arts, media, and entertainment industries.

In addition, to industry guests, Sonja was joined by some of her fellow “Real Housewives of New York” cast. The event was a successful and was enjoyed by all who attended.